Word Basics
Start from a blank document and finish able to write, format and share a clean multi-page document: editing, fonts and spacing, lists, page setup, pictures and simple tables, proofreading and PDF export.
Who it's for
You're new to Word, you still format with spaces and extra Enters, or you want a reliable way to make clean letters, reports and handouts for school, work or community groups.
What you'll build
A 3-page study guide with consistent formatting, bulleted and numbered lists, a picture, a simple table, headers, page numbers and a PDF copy.
What's in this path
- Step 1: How to Get Started with Word: Workspace, Views, and SavingLearn what each part of the Word window does, switch between views, and create, save, and reopen documents without losing work.13 min read
- Step 2: How to Type, Select, and Edit Text in WordSelect text with the mouse and keyboard, cut, copy and paste cleanly, undo mistakes, and use Find to jump straight to any word.14 min read
- Step 3: How to Format Text and Paragraphs in Word: Fonts, Spacing, and AlignmentChoose readable fonts and sizes, set line and paragraph spacing instead of pressing Enter twice, align text, and copy formatting with Format Painter.15 min read
- Step 4: How to Use Bullets, Numbered Lists, and Tabs in WordMake bulleted and numbered lists that renumber themselves, nest sub-points, and line up text with tab stops instead of spaces.14 min read
- Step 5: How to Set Up Pages in Word: Margins, Breaks, Headers, Footers, and Page NumbersSet margins, orientation and paper size, insert page breaks, and add headers, footers and page numbers that stay put as the document grows.15 min read
- Step 6: How to Add Pictures, Shapes, and Simple Tables in WordInsert and resize pictures, choose a simple text wrap, add shapes and icons, and build a basic table for schedules or lists.15 min read
- Step 7: How to Proofread, Print, and Save a Word Document as PDFUse Editor to catch spelling and grammar issues, check the word count, preview pages before printing, and save a clean PDF to share.14 min read
- Step 8: Beginner Project: Make a 3-Page Study Guide in WordPut every beginner skill together: write, format, lay out and export a 3-page study guide with lists, a picture, a table and page numbers, then score it with a simple rubric.13 min read
Not sure where to start? Compare the four levels →